Why Elementary Counseling?Elementary school is an important time in a child’s development. A child starts to develop their attitude as a learner. These early years can set the stage for their success and positive outlook in school. Not only do they begin to develop their academic self-concept, but they also start acquiring social skills, life skills, and decision-making skills. Appropriate communication is beginning to develop along with healthy coping skills to be used throughout life.
With so many skills to acquire in these early years, it is with certainty that some students will need support. A school counselor is available to support all students, regardless of their background and academic status. A student does not need to be in the RtI process in order to receive counseling support. All a student needs is a caring adult in their life who recognizes the need he or she has. School counselors also help student build on the strengths they already have. Counselors work with groups of students, teachers, and administrators to help enhance the school environment. |
"Teaching kids to count is fine, but teaching them what counts is best." What Elementary Counselors DoElementary counselors offer support in a variety of ways. Not all services are reactive; in fact, elementary counseling emphasizes a proactive approach that delivers skills to a broad set of students (ex: classroom guidance lesson). Elementary counselors seek to support students in three domains: academic, personal/social, and career.
Counselors typically see students in 3 different settings:
Students can be referred to counseling in 3 ways:
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About Your Counselor
My name is Jen Dando and I am the school counselor at Ridgeview Elementary School in the Dunlap School District. I have a Masters degree in School Counseling from Lee University with certification Pre-K through 12th grade. While I have experience with all age groups, elementary counseling is my passion. I believe in being proactive and creative in my approach with students. I often teach young students that I'm just like a ladybug. I'm the lady you come to when something bugs you. I look forward to this year at Ridgeview! Please visit the Welcome page if you would like to contact me.